Removing a ferromagnetic liquid from a surface

Abstract

A deposit of a ferromagnetic liquid is removed from a surface using a removal device after separating a first component from engagement with a second component, wherein the ferromagnetic liquid may be a thermal interface material disposed between the first and second components to increase heat conduction therebetween. A removal device that includes a magnet is used to remove a deposit of the ferromagnetic liquid that remains on the surface of the first component after separation from the second component. The ferromagnetic liquid is magnetically attracted to the magnet of the removal device to facilitate removal. Some removal devices include the magnet and a liquid-permeable material covering a surface of the magnet. The liquid-permeable material is configured to directly contact the ferromagnetic liquid and the magnet is configured to draw the ferromagnetic liquid into the liquid-permeable material and retain the ferromagnetic liquid within the liquid-permeable material.